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Inspired by Antonio’s @cecu6669hotmail-com invitation to share the Christmas sweets that shape our memories and tables, I’d love to introduce you to one traditional dessert that belongs exclusively to Croatian cuisine: Paprenjaci.
As someone who lives between two very close gastronomic traditions, I often notice how similar Serbian and Croatian festive tables can be. Yet, every so often, there is a recipe that clearly draws a cultural line and Paprenjaci are exactly that.
Paprenjaci are traditional Croatian spiced Christmas cookies, deeply rooted in history. Their name comes from the word papar (pepper), which may sound surprising for a sweet, but that subtle hint of pepper is what makes them unmistakable. Along with honey, walnuts, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, pepper gives these cookies a warm, slightly sharp note that balances sweetness and spice beautifully.
In English, Paprenjaci are often described as Croatian spiced honey cookies with pepper, though there is really no perfect translation, their character is too specific, too tied to place and tradition.
Historically, Paprenjaci were considered festive and even luxurious cookies, often decorated with simple imprints or patterns, prepared for Christmas, weddings, and important family celebrations. They are not flashy, but they are deeply aromatic, comforting, and timeless, the kind of cookie that tastes like heritage.
Daniela, Estefania Lozano Ragel and 5 others6 Comments-
Thank you for sharing
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@leanaswan-c6e997 You’re welcome… I’m always glad when we can share the traditions of our countries ♥️
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Gracias por seguir mi iniciativa. Nunca nos olvidemos de nuestras tradiciones.
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@cecu6669hotmail-com I really liked your idea and we should definitely keep sharing.
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Muchos ingredientes en una galleta, mucho sabor y lo que más me gusta es su toque picante, que maravilla Lana
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@mercedesminayapalaciosgmail-com Thank you dear ♥️
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